CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE ANNOUNCES EXPANDED HEALTHCARE SERVICES FOR VETERANS

(Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle was joined by local leaders to announce the full implementation of the Honoring Our PACT Act by the federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). All veterans exposed to toxins or other hazards while serving in the military are now eligible to enroll directly in VA healthcare, years ahead of schedule.

“We passed the Honoring Our PACT Act in Congress because our nation’s heroes shouldn’t have to jump through bureaucratic hoops to access the healthcare benefits they have rightfully earned from their courageous service,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “I’m thrilled the provisions of our legislation have been implemented ahead of schedule, opening the door to life-saving care for millions of veterans. I am grateful to the Department of Veterans Affairs for their swift action and look forward to our continued work together to ensure our veterans have the full benefits they deserve when they return home.”

"It’s not enough to simply tell our veterans 'thank you for your service.' We must back those words with actions, and the PACT Act does that, by significantly expanding access to VA health care," said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. "I'm grateful to Congressman Morelle for his support of this legislation and his leadership to help get this passed in Washington.  It will impact thousands of veterans here in Monroe County and countless more across the country."

“Monroe County is unique in that it is home to nearly 30,000 Veterans, a relatively large Veteran population,” said Nick Stefanovic, Director of Monroe County Veteran Services. “That is a testament to the fact that Monroe County is a great place for a Veteran to live. Opening access to healthcare will remove another obstacle faced by our Veterans, allowing us more opportunity to continue serving our community. I am grateful to Congressman Joe Morelle, County Executive Adam Bello, and our VA leadership for facilitating the benefits and programs that assist Veterans in continuing our lives of service to our communities.” 

“The PACT Act is a welcomed and much needed expansion of healthcare and benefits for Veterans and their survivors. VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System has enrolled hundreds of Veterans, and conducted thousands of toxic exposure screenings since the PACT Act was enacted. With the new expansion, even more Veterans can receive the much-needed care they’ve earned and deserve,” said Bruce Tucker, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System Executive Director. “We encourage all Veterans to apply for benefits today, even if you think you don’t need it at this moment.” 

The bipartisan Honoring our PACT Act, which Congressman Morelle voted to pass in 2022, expanded VA healthcare to veterans exposed to toxic substances during their military service including burn pits and airborne hazards; created presumptions for 23 respiratory illnesses and cancers, shifting the burden of proof off our veterans; and streamlined internal processes so more veterans can receive the help and support they need in a timely manner.

As of March 5, 2024, the VA has fully implemented the provisions of the Honoring Our PACT Act by making all veterans exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in our armed forces—whether at home or abroad—eligible to enroll directly in VA health care. While the Honoring Our PACT Act mandates veterans become eligible increments between 2022 and 2032, this decision waives the phase-in approach and makes every veteran eligible for care immediately.

To see if you, your family, or someone you know is eligible for care under the Honoring Our PACT Act, visit VA.gov/PACT. To learn more about how to register for healthcare through the VA, visit their website here.

###